During a recent city commission meeting, discussions centered around a refugee relocation program presented by Catholic Charities of Owensboro, which has sparked considerable community interest and misinformation. The meeting, led by the mayor, aimed to clarify the details surrounding the program and address public concerns.

The mayor highlighted a previous meeting held with Healthy Paducah, where representatives from Catholic Charities provided insights into the refugee resettlement process. He emphasized the importance of accurate information, noting that misinformation has circulated within the community, prompting a passionate response from residents.

To further clarify the situation, the city manager read a letter from Tom Lilly, the chancellor of the Diocese of Owensboro. The letter, dated October 8, 2024, outlined the purpose of the presentation made to the Healthy Paducah Coalition on September 30. Lilly explained that the goal was to educate the community about the refugee resettlement process and to provide resources for those seeking factual information.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to transparency and community engagement, as officials sought to dispel myths and foster informed discussions about the refugee program.